Australia Age Pension Boost – $1,178 Increase From September 2025 – Find Out Who Qualifies

The Australia Age Pension is the cornerstone of retirement income for millions of senior citizens. From 20 September 2025, eligible retirees will receive a boost in their pension payments, bringing much-needed relief as the cost of living continues to rise.

The new fortnightly payment rates will lift the maximum single rate to $1,178.70, while couples will receive $888.50 each (a combined $1,777.00).

This article explains the new payment rates, eligibility criteria, application process, and what the increase means for pensioners across Australia.

New Age Pension Rates From September 2025

From 20 September 2025, Age Pension recipients will see higher fortnightly payments. Here are the updated amounts:

Recipient Type	Increase Per Fortnight	New Fortnightly Rate	Annual Equivalent	Notes
Single	+$29.70	$1,178.70	~$30,646	Includes supplements
Couple (each)	+$22.40	$888.50	~$23,101	Each partner amount
Couple (combined)	+$44.80	$1,777.00	~$46,202	Combined total

These figures include the Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement, which are standard additions for most pensioners.

Eligibility Rules

Not everyone qualifies for the Age Pension increase. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Age Requirement: You must be 67 years or older from 1 July 2023 onward.
2. Residency: You must have lived in Australia as a resident for at least 10 years, with 5 years continuous residence.
3. Income Test:
   • Single: Must earn less than $218 per fortnight for the full pension.
   • Couples (combined): Must earn less than $380 per fortnight for the full pension.
   • Part pension may still be payable up to higher thresholds.
4. Assets Test:
   • Single homeowner: Assets under $321,500.
   • Single non-homeowner: Assets under $579,500.
   • Couple homeowners (combined): Assets under $481,500.
   • Couple non-homeowners (combined): Assets under $739,500.

If your income or assets exceed these thresholds, you may still qualify for a part pension, which is reduced gradually.

How to Apply for the Age Pension

If you are already receiving the Age Pension, the new rates will apply automatically from September 2025. New applicants, however, must submit a claim through MyGov linked to Centrelink.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Check eligibility for age, residency, income, and assets.
2. Prepare documents, including birth certificate, proof of residence, retirement details, income and asset records.
3. Create or log in to your MyGov account and link it to Centrelink.
4. Submit your claim online and attach supporting documents.
5. Track your application through MyGov and check when payments will begin.

Deeming Rates Update

From September 2025, the deeming rates used to calculate income from financial assets will also change:

• 0.75% on financial assets up to $64,200 (singles) or $106,200 (couples).
• 2.75% on assets above these thresholds.

This adjustment may slightly affect pension amounts for retirees with larger savings or investments, as deemed income counts towards the income test.

Key Highlights of the September 2025 Pension Boost

• Singles: $1,178.70 per fortnight
• Couples (each): $888.50 per fortnight
• Couples (combined): $1,777.00 per fortnight
• Automatic application for existing pensioners
• Updated deeming rates may affect income test outcomes

The $1,178 Age Pension boost from September 2025 is a significant step in supporting Australian retirees against rising living costs. Singles, couples, and those on part pensions will all benefit from the indexed increase.

By ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria and keeping your MyGov details updated, you can enjoy the enhanced payments without interruption.

This boost reflects the government’s commitment to helping older Australians maintain financial stability in retirement, offering greater security and peace of mind in the years ahead.

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